The Hard Part of Leaving the Military No One Talks About: REJECTION! | Ep. 189

Send us Fan Mail Are you prepared to hear “no”—or hear nothing at all—from civilian employers after years of successful military service? In this episode, I sit down with Tom Hoover, a soon-to-be retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sergeant with 25 years of service, for an unarmored conversation about the realities of transitioning into the civilian workforce. Tom shares his firsthand experience with job rejection, being ghosted by employers, and learning not to let either define his value. We discuss the importance of patience, networking, translating military experience into civilian language, improving resumes for ATS systems, and continuing to move forward when the hiring process doesn’t go as expected. Most importantly, we talk about the mental side of transition and why service members should prepare themselves not only for their next career—but also for the rejection and uncertainty that may come along the way. If you’re preparing to leave the military, already transitioning, or supporting someone who is, this conversation is for you. 🎙️ Watch or listen to the full episode, share it with a transitioning service member or veteran, and subscribe to Unarmored Talk for more conversations that strengthen how we think and respond to life. CONNECT WITH TOM HOOVER 🔗 Guest Link: Tom Hoover | LinkedIn CHAPTERS 00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction 00:58 – Tom’s Air Force Story & Family 02:03 – SkillBridge & Helping Veterans Transition 03:24 – When the Job Email Says No 09:55 – Applying Widely & Handling Silence 11:15 – Networking Without Asking for a Job 13:38 – Advice to Younger Service Members 17:17 – Where to Find Tom & Closing Thank you for your continued support. Stay unarmored, stay authentic, and stay mentally fit. God bless. Support the show Become a Member Today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_M2Kfxb2hN1uHdlDKGtuQw/join Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6pF-fF29KO1rqQsabaxHHO1nQQtn5lhd Still Serving, Inc.: www.stillservinginc.com Email: [email protected]